With over 31 years of dental experience, Dr. Norvishie Arkutu is a well-respected orthodontist and the CEO of Platinum Orthodontics in Accra, Ghana. A pioneer in her field, Dr. Arkutu earned her first degree in dentistry at the University of Bristol and completed a master’s degree at the University of Nottingham. Just4WomenAfrica recently had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Arkutu to discuss her journey, the challenges she has faced, and the transformative role of AI in her practice.
What Inspired Dr. Arkutu to Pursue Dentistry?
When asked about her initial motivation to enter the field of dentistry, Dr. Arkutu reflected on her decision, highlighting the practicality of the profession. She explained, “I chose dentistry because I wanted a career that would offer me a certain level of class and a stable income.” She also noted that dentistry is often considered a suitable career for women due to its flexibility. “Dentistry allows you to choose your working hours and offers the possibility of working even into pregnancy,” she said, emphasizing that the profession aligned well with her future plans as a woman.
The Challenges of Building a Dental Practice
Establishing her own dental practice was no easy feat. Dr. Arkutu described her first challenge as building a purpose-built practice “from block to block,” a demanding and meticulous process. Once the physical foundation was laid, the next challenge she faced was staffing, specifically in finding trained dental professionals in Ghana.
“Dentistry is still in its infancy in Africa,” she said, noting that this presents both opportunities and obstacles. “There aren’t always specifically trained personnel available, so the pool to pick from is limited.” This lack of infrastructure requires additional investment in training and development, a task she has taken on to build her skilled team.
Dentistry in Africa: Key Challenges
When asked about the broader challenges facing dentistry in Africa, Dr. Arkutu identified two main issues. The first, she explained, is the lack of stringent regulation in the industry, which creates inconsistencies in practice standards and patient care. “Without proper regulatory standards, it’s hard to ensure consistent quality across different practices,” she observed.
The second challenge is the “fine line between what is clinical and what is cosmetic.” In today’s dental landscape, cosmetic procedures are increasingly in demand, but Dr. Arkutu stresses the importance of balancing aesthetic enhancements with clinical care.
The Role of AI in Modern Dentistry
Dr. Arkutu shared her excitement about the growing role of AI in dentistry. She explained that AI technology has been a game-changer, starting with client acquisition and engagement. Tools like ChatGPT, she noted, have helped her develop marketing strategies and improve patient communication, making it easier to attract and retain clients.
She described AI in dentistry as “mind-blowing,” highlighting its impact on diagnostic processes. “Things have evolved. X-rays are becoming less essential because AI provides a more comprehensive view,” she explained. With AI-assisted 3D imaging, dentists now have a complete, detailed visualization of the teeth, jaw, and surrounding tissues. This is particularly beneficial for:
- Dental Implants: AI can integrate cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans with other data to create personalized implant plans, ensuring precise placement.
- Orthodontics: AI-driven 3D models allow orthodontists to simulate and predict tooth movement, making braces and aligners more effective and reducing treatment time.
Dr. Arkutu noted that AI’s role goes beyond imaging; it helps detect and treat issues earlier, resulting in less invasive procedures. For example:
- Early Cavity Detection: AI algorithms can identify early signs of tooth decay without the need for traditional X-rays, enabling preventive treatments like fluoride applications.
- Gum Disease Tracking: AI software assesses gum health through digital photos and real-time scans, reducing the need for X-rays to monitor bone loss or inflammation.
However, when asked if AI could eventually replace dentists, Dr. Arkutu was measured in her response. “I think we’re a bit far from that,” she said. “AI makes things more efficient, but the human element in patient care and decision-making is still essential.”
Lessons from a Decade as an Entrepreneur
As a successful businesswoman, Dr. Arkutu has learned valuable lessons over her decade-long journey in entrepreneurship. She emphasized three main pillars for sustained growth: people, consistency, and adaptability.
- People: “Growth is dependent on people and the ability to keep that team with you,” she said, underscoring the importance of a loyal, skilled team.
- Consistency: Dr. Arkutu stressed the need for consistent effort in providing quality service, noting that patient trust and satisfaction are built over time.
- Adaptability: She also emphasized the importance of staying flexible and keeping up with advancements in technology and industry standards. “You need to stay abreast of the changing environment and developments,” she advised.
Finally, Dr. Arkutu highlighted the importance of mentors. “Having mentors has been crucial to my journey. They provide guidance, support, and often a broader perspective on what is possible.”
A Trailblazer in African Dentistry
Dr. Norvishie Arkutu exemplifies resilience and vision in African dentistry. Her dedication to quality care, her adaptability to new technologies like AI, and her commitment to nurturing talent in a budding field make her a trailblazer in her profession. Through her insights and experiences, Dr. Arkutu offers a blueprint for other women entrepreneurs, demonstrating that with hard work, vision, and support, success is achievable even in challenging fields like dentistry.
